Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
495 Computer Science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
202 Computer Science graduates annually, 69% graduation rate
Seattle University
84 Computer Science graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.Washington has 18 accredited computer science bachelor's programs, led by the University of Washington's Paul G. Allen School
- 2.UW Seattle ranks among top 10 CS programs nationally with 89% graduation rate and direct recruiting from Microsoft, Amazon, and Google
- 3.In-state tuition at public universities averages $12,000—significantly lower than comparable programs in California or Massachusetts
- 4.Washington software developers earn median $140,280 annually—20% above the national average (BLS Washington 2024)
- 5.Seattle metro area employs 156,000+ software developers with major employers including Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and Expedia
Computer Science Education in Washington State
Washington state offers exceptional opportunities for computer science students, anchored by the University of Washington's world-renowned program and supported by the largest concentration of tech companies outside Silicon Valley. With Microsoft and Amazon headquartered in the Seattle area, students have unparalleled access to internships, mentorship, and career opportunities.
The state's CS programs benefit from strong industry connections and relatively affordable tuition compared to other tech hubs. For context on national rankings, see our best computer science bachelor's programs guide. Students interested in specific career paths should review our software engineer salary guide and AI/ML engineer compensation for Washington-specific data.
Washington's unique position as home to major cloud computing providers also makes it ideal for students interested in cloud computing careers and data science programs. The state's emphasis on sustainable technology and aerospace engineering through Boeing adds additional career dimensions for CS graduates.
Washington Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 95.1 |
| 2 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | Bothell, WA | Public | $11,524 | 69% | — | 64.1 |
| 3 | Seattle University | Seattle, WA | Private | $53,235 | 92% | — | 62.1 |
| 4 | Washington State University | Pullman, WA | Public | $10,976 | — | — | 60.1 |
| 5 | Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma, WA | Private | $49,472 | 100% | — | 55.3 |
| 6 | Whitworth University | Spokane, WA | Private | $49,600 | 92% | — | 54.5 |
| 7 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | Public | $4,074 | 96% | — | 53.8 |
| 8 | Heritage University | Toppenish, WA | Private | $19,920 | 84% | — | 52.6 |
| 9 | Walla Walla University | College Place, WA | Private | $31,899 | — | — | 48.3 |
| 10 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg, WA | Public | $7,021 | — | — | 48.2 |
| 11 | Gonzaga University | Spokane, WA | Private | $52,540 | — | — | 47.8 |
| 12 | University of Puget Sound | Tacoma, WA | Private | $59,340 | — | — | 44.1 |
| 13 | Seattle Pacific University | Seattle, WA | Private | $37,965 | — | — | 42.1 |
| 14 | Saint Martin's University | Lacey, WA | Private | $43,600 | — | — | 41.4 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Washington: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Washington | U of Washington-Tacoma | Western Washington | U of Washington-Bothell | Seattle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,524 | $11,524 | $7,997 | $11,524 | $53,235 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 92% | 99% | 69% | 92% |
| Annual Graduates | 495 | 171 | 128 | 240 | 82 |
| Acceptance Rate | 43% | 83% | 91% | 92% | 76% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 95.1/100 | 70.1/100 | 67.4/100 | 66.2/100 | 65.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Washington
Washington offers 19 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Washington-Seattle Campus, University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, Western Washington University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $101,661 in the Washington market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 495 | 95.1 |
| #2 U of Washington-Tacoma | $11,524 | 92% | 171 | 70.1 |
| #3 Western Washington | $7,997 | 99% | 128 | 67.4 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Washington
For graduate study, Washington offers 10 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Seattle University, University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Washington reaching $188,799 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 203 | 95.1 |
| #2 Seattle | $53,235 | 92% | 82 | 65.0 |
| #3 U of Washington-Tacoma | $11,524 | 92% | 42 | 62.1 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Washington
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Washington are at Bellevue College ($4,074/year), Central Washington University ($7,021/year), Eastern Washington University ($7,294/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Washington's competitive tech salaries.
At Bellevue College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $16,296 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $101,661, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.2 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Washington (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Bellevue College | $4,074 | $16,296 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #2 Central Washington | $7,021 | $28,084 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Eastern Washington | $7,294 | $29,176 | 0.4 years | Public |
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 495 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 43%
- • Ranking Score: 95.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 495 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 95.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (495 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UW Computer Science educates students to become leaders in computing systems that touch every aspect of modern society, offering courses from mathematical foundations to advanced topics like AI, machine learning, and robotics. Most students earning computer science degrees will be admitted directly as first-year students, with the program housed in the prestigious Paul G. Allen Center.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 124
- •MATH 125
- •MATH 126
- •CSE 123 or CSE 143
- •5 credits from approved natural science courses
- •5 credits of English composition
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 180
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 85% positive outcome rate
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
Tacoma, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 171 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 70.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 171 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 70.1 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (171 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,997 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 128 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 67.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 128 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (128 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Western's Computer Science program provides lots of one-on-one time with faculty and a problem-solving analytical background that ensures programmers and systems analysts can produce creative programming solutions. The program offers diverse elective areas including AI, robotics, graphics, and security, allowing students to explore individual interests while working on real products.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Four units of English, including three units of college prep composition and/or literature
- •Three units of mathematics beyond pre-algebra, including completion of Algebra II
- •Three units of science, with one year of algebra-based science (chemistry or physics)
- •Three units of social science
- •Two sequential units in a single world language
- •One semester or trimester of fine or performing arts
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.00
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Microsoft, Vitech Business Group
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
Bothell, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 69% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 240 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 92%
- • Ranking Score: 66.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 69% graduation rate
- 240 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (69%), program size (240 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (92% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Seattle University
Seattle, WA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $53,235 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 82 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 76%
- • Ranking Score: 65.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 82 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 65.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (82 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (76% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Seattle University's MSCS offers evening courses and flexible enrollment options with strong connections to Seattle's leading tech employers, providing access to invaluable networking and career opportunities. The program includes hands-on learning through industry-led projects and offers a bridge program for career changers with no prior programming experience.
Admission Prerequisites
- •six preparatory courses listed in the Course Catalog
- •Calculus III (for data science specialization)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 45-49, depending on specialization
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: most MSCS graduates are employed within six months of graduation (2017-2020)
- Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, F5 Networks
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms for major tech companies
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to drive business decisions and build predictive models
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-2051Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems for cutting-edge applications
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations to optimize software deployment and infrastructure
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational systems and data from cyber threats and security breaches
Washington State University System and Options
Washington's public higher education system provides multiple pathways for computer science education, anchored by the University of Washington system with campuses in Seattle, Bothell, and Tacoma. The main Seattle campus houses the prestigious Paul G. Allen School, while the Bothell and Tacoma campuses offer more accessible admission with the same UW degree credential.
Washington State University in Pullman serves as the state's land-grant institution, emphasizing practical engineering education and research. The school has been expanding its computer science offerings and recently launched new programs in cybersecurity and data science.
Regional universities like Western Washington University in Bellingham and Central Washington University in Ellensburg provide quality CS education at lower costs, often serving as excellent alternatives for students seeking smaller class sizes and more personalized attention. These programs maintain strong job placement rates in the Seattle metro area.
- University of Washington System: Three campuses offering CS degrees with shared resources and faculty
- Washington State University: Land-grant research institution with growing tech programs
- Regional Universities: WWU, CWU, EWU providing accessible, high-quality CS education
- Community College Transfer: Strong 2+2 pathways, especially through Seattle Central and Bellevue College
Other Tech Programs in Washington
AI and machine learning degree programs with focus on practical applications
Data analytics and statistics programs for business and research applications
Information security and cyber defense programs for protecting digital assets
Engineering-focused software development programs with project management
IT infrastructure and systems administration programs for enterprise environments
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Massachusetts
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to major tech employers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing
- Affordable in-state tuition at high-quality public universities
- Strong job market with 156,000+ software developer positions
- Beautiful Pacific Northwest setting with outdoor recreation
- World-class research opportunities at University of Washington
- No state income tax advantage for high tech salaries
- Larger selection of top-tier private universities (California, Massachusetts)
- More diverse tech ecosystems beyond cloud/enterprise software
- Warmer climate and different cultural environments
- Lower cost of living in certain metropolitan areas
- Stronger startup ecosystems in certain specializations
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington CS Programs
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related CS Program Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics from 2023 reports
Washington state salary data for computer occupations, May 2024
State higher education data and transfer pathway information
Federal education statistics and program outcome data
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Washington Employment Security Department
Next Steps for Washington CS Applicants
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for your target schools. UW Seattle requires strong math and science preparation, while other programs may have more flexible requirements.
Plan Your Prerequisites
Complete calculus, physics, and introductory programming courses. Consider starting at a community college to save money and improve transfer prospects.
Build a Programming Portfolio
Create projects showcasing your coding skills. GitHub repositories with meaningful projects demonstrate passion and ability to admissions committees.
Apply for Financial Aid Early
Submit FAFSA by January 1st for maximum aid consideration. Research Washington State Need Grant and other local scholarship opportunities.
Network with Local Tech Community
Attend Seattle tech meetups, hackathons, and career fairs. Building connections early can lead to internship and job opportunities.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.